Education abroad is not just a short period of education in a foreign country; it is much, much more than that. Although an international degree is an important factor, it is not the only factor that encourages students to study abroad. In fact, most students plan not only to study abroad but also to work and eventually settle down at their desired destination. It is the glamor of a global career and an improved lifestyle that aspiring study seekers abroad seek most. And when it comes to studying abroad destinations that guarantee a combination of all three, most students prefer to studying in Ireland.
Hidden behind magical nature and rich history, Ireland is a country of prominent scholars and great job opportunities. The country is honored as one of the best destinations abroad in Europe for its excellent quality of education and student-friendly policies. On top of that, its robust economy is a big plus for attracting students who want to work internationally.
Let’s take a closer look at why Ireland is the best destination for students to study, work and settle.
Studying in Ireland
Ireland is recognized worldwide for its excellent education system. As a major English-speaking destination, the country is home to 7 of the best universities in the world. And luckily that’s not all. Ireland is home to a host of world-renowned universities and colleges that encourage students from all over the world to studying in Ireland. Griffith College, Dublin Business School, Trinity College Dublin, and University College Dublin are some of the prominent names to choose from.
Another important factor that encourages students to study in Ireland is the impressive list of international courses to choose from. Irish universities and colleges offer a wide range of accredited courses for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. Whether a student is in the arts, commerce, or science, Irish universities have over 5,000 programs that exactly match their educational background and future goals. They even have certain short-term courses for professionals who strive to improve their skills globally.
You must be wondering, “Of course the colleges and programs are fantastic. But what is it like to studying in Ireland? The answer to your question is two words: Generous hospitality. When you visit Ireland, you will be greeted by some of the nicest people in the world. Irish residents have a wonderful way of making their guests feel at home with their culture, food, and endless tales. In addition, the diverse student community in the country makes it easy for aspiring students abroad to assimilate and study in Ireland.
Work in Ireland
A thriving economy is another compelling reason why students strive to study in Ireland. When it comes to foreign direct investment (FDI), Ireland is the second most attractive country in the world. As such, the country’s labor market is filled with leading global companies, primarily in the IT sector. As Google, Facebook, PayPal, Microsoft, Twitter, and others have their European headquarters in Ireland. Ireland’s reputation among the world’s leading IT companies has also given the country the title ‘European Silicon Valley. In addition to the IT sector, the country is also a hotspot for finance and pharmacy jobs.
Interestingly, it is not just the availability of jobs that attracts students to study in Ireland. The country offers some of the highest-paid jobs in Europe. Here is a quick overview of the most popular and highest-paid jobs in Ireland:
As if those reasons were not enough, Ireland also offers a 2-year post-study work permit to aspiring students abroad. Add to that the global internship opportunities and Ireland will be the perfect destination for students to start their global careers. What is even more interesting is that aspiring students abroad are allowed to take part-time jobs while studying in Ireland, thus financing their stay in the country.
Overall, the country’s abundance of educational opportunities and international jobs make Ireland a lucrative sea of opportunities waiting to be explored.
Settle down in Ireland
Is it worth it for potential students abroad to settle in Ireland? Believe it or not, the UN says settling in Ireland may be the safest and smartest decision a student can make. The 2020 edition of the Human Development Index (HDI) declared Ireland the second-best country for a living (only behind Norway). The index ranked the countries on the basis of the following 3 parameters: long and healthy lifestyle, access to knowledge, and a decent standard of living.
In that sense, a significant number of students who visit Ireland to study finally decide to settle in the country. This is partly due to the country’s exceptional educational and career opportunities. But the most important factor that drives students to apply for Irish citizenship is its particularly easy PR process.
According to the re-established by the Irish authorities, a person can apply for Ireland’s PR after being legally in the country for at least 5 years. In that sense, the first step for a student to obtain an Irish PR is to obtain a work permit after graduation. It may be one of the following: (a) the Irish General Work Permit and (b) the Critical Skills Employment Permit.
The Irish Government issues these work permits for specific time periods ranging from 6 months to 2 years. Upon expiration, a person has the right to extend his work permit, provided that he shows good behavior and avoids legal problems. Once the residency period reaches the point of 5 years, a student can apply for PR and become an Irish citizen.
Last thoughts
Ireland’s reputation as one of the world’s leading destinations abroad is not for nothing. All the points discussed above are a strong testimony to the excellence of the country. With an impressive education system, Ireland promotes a diverse learning ecosystem for aspiring students abroad. And the same Irish universities are even helping students get back on their feet and build their globally successful careers. In addition, the country excels at making students feel comfortable with its welcoming culture and friendly crowds, making them live their lives in the country itself.
Quality education? Check. International jobs? Check. Is it worth settling in a country? Check. If we were, to sum up, Ireland will definitely get the gold medal for being the best destination to study, work and settle on. So if you are planning to go on your study trip abroad, Ireland should be one of the first choices. on your list of potential destinations.
At Adil Consultants (SMC-PVT) Limited, we are dedicated to helping students realize their dreams of studying abroad in the best possible way. As an exclusive partner of the best Irish universities, we have guided many of our students toward their future destinations in the country. From visa application to post-departure, our team ensures a hassle-free study trip abroad for ambitious students.